Your Guide to 4th of July Fireworks in Atlanta, Georgia

Along with barbecues and baseball games, fireworks are a 4th of July tradition. Kids and adults can enjoy large pyrotechnic displays in several locations, or people over 18 can buy and set off their own fireworks. Here’s some more information about 4th of July fireworks in Atlanta, Georgia.

Where to Watch 4th of July Firework Shows

Decatur is a suburb of Atlanta with a family-friendly annual 4th of July parade and fireworks show. The parade has live music; it starts at 6 p.m.; and anyone can participate by riding their bikes, walking, or skating. The Concert on the Square starts at 7 p.m. in the Community Bandstand, and the fireworks start at dark – usually around 9 p.m. All these events are within walking distance of the Decatur MARTA station on the blue rail line, and park and ride lots are available throughout Atlanta.

You can also see fireworks across the street from the East Point MARTA station on the south red and gold lines. The event is called Salute to the Red, White and Blue, and it includes music and classic summer food like Italian ice, funnel cakes, and grilled meats. The fireworks start at 9:30 p.m.

The Centennial Olympic Park 4th of July Celebration in the middle of downtown Atlanta lasts all day, and the fireworks show at night reflects beautifully off buildings and water features. You can reach the park from the Peachtree Center MARTA station or the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena station. Note that nearby Lenox Square won’t have fireworks this year because the crowds and traffic produced by two shows less than 10 miles apart were putting a strain on the city. Instead, Lenox Square is partnering with Centennial Olympic Park to create a spectacular joint 4th of July experience.

Local Laws

People can use fireworks until midnight on July 3rd and 4th, but the deadline is 9 p.m. on every other day of the year except New Year’s Eve, when it’s 1 a.m. No fireworks are allowed on public roads, in parks, or near hospitals, nursing homes, or prisons. They’re also banned near gas stations, power plants, and water treatment facilities. Only people 18 or over can light fireworks, but people 16 or over can possess and transport them. No one can use fireworks when they’re impaired by drugs or alcohol.

Best Places to Buy Fireworks

The state of Georgia hosts a website with a list of all the stores in the state that sell fireworks. Some of the most popular stores near Atlanta include Sky King Fireworks in Smyrna and Lawrenceville, Jake’s Fireworks in Lawrenceville, Phantom Fireworks in Roswell, Ninja Fireworks in Duluth, and Enigma Fireworks in Woodstock. Many grocery stores in the Atlanta area also have a limited selection of fireworks.

On Independence Day, bring a blanket or some chairs and watch a professional fireworks show with your friends or family. You can also have fun creating your own backyard display. Just make sure you follow all state and local laws and take adequate safety precautions.